Updated 28. January 2025 by Sören Spieckermann
The “skewed order of battle” in Battletech Alpha Strike: tactics and deployment examples
In the world of Battletech Alpha Strike it is not only the choice of mechs that determines victory or defeat, but also the skillful positioning on the battlefield. One particularly versatile tactic that experienced players like to use is the “skewed battle formation“. In this blog post, I explain what is behind this strategy, when it is particularly useful and which units are suitable for its use.
What is the “skewed battle formation”?
The “oblique order of battle” is a tactical formation in which the focus of the attacking force is concentrated on one flank, while the rest of the unit acts defensively or even stays out of direct combat. The aim of this strategy is to split up the enemy formation, enable flank attacks and defeat enemy forces in isolation. If the attack on a flank is successful, the units deployed there can swing in towards the enemy center. This puts additional pressure on the enemy center.
Instead of charging head-on towards the enemy, the opponent is forced to redeploy his units or fight inefficiently as he has to shift his focus to the endangered flank.
Advantages of tactics
- Flank attacks: The concentrated attack of a flank makes it possible to quickly eliminate isolated enemy units.
- Disruption of the opponent’s strategy: The opponent is forced to break up his formation, creating gaps and attack windows.
- Flexibility: Players can quickly adjust their formation if necessary if the opponent reacts unexpectedly.
- Psychological effect: Forcing the pressure on one side can tempt the opponent to make hasty maneuvers.
Example setup and unit selection
A successful “Leaning Order of Battle” requires a mix of fast and heavily armed units as well as supporting forces that can maintain pressure. Here are some suggestions for unit selection:
- Flank Hunters/Scouts: Fast mechs like the Locust or Firestarter are ideal for attacking the outer flank and forcing the enemy to regroup.
- Assault and heavy mechs: Models such as the Warhammer or Thunderbolt concentrate their firepower on central enemy units on the flank and break through their defensive lines.
- Supporting fire: Long-range units such as the Catapult or Archer stay behind and secure the cover of the attacking mechs or help to hold the center with precise long-range and indirect fire.
- Deceleration units: Mechs like the Shadow Hawk, which are defensively strong, can tie up enemies on the opposite flank while the main attack takes place.
Tactical approach in the game
- Deployment: Start the game with a seemingly normal distribution of your units. Disguise your intention to force one of the flanks.
- Flank attack: In the first few turns, concentrate your fast units and attack mechs on one flank, while support fire comes from a central position.
- Delay: Use your defensive mechs to keep the enemy busy on the weak flank and in the center and slow down their advance.
- Exploit gaps: As soon as your opponent regroups his formation, attack isolated units.
When is the “skewed battle formation” useful?
This set-up works particularly well:
- – Against rigid formations: Opponents who keep their units close together are susceptible to flanking maneuvers.
- In case of numerical inferiority: By concentrating your firepower on one flank, you can compensate for your disadvantages.
- In terrain with cover: The natural limitation of the battlefield by obstacles makes it easier to isolate enemy units.
Conclusion on the skewed order of battle
The “Skewed Battle Order” is a versatile and powerful strategy in Battletech Alpha Strike. It allows you to specifically outwit and eliminate your opponent. With the right combination of fast, heavy and supporting units, this tactic can dominate the battlefield and give you a decisive advantage.
